Yamaha has revealed the fourth model in its ‘GEN’ line of concept bikes, a scooter with semi-transparent bodywork that allows the frame underneath to be seen.
The 04GEN, revealed today in Vietnam, comes on the heels of 2014’s 01GEN, a three-wheeled leaning motorcycle. The 02GEN was a an electric wheelchair concept, while 03GEN was another leaning trike.
The new concept has only two wheels and is fairly convention in terms of its technical layout and design but it does step away from the ordinary when it comes to styling. Instead of opaque plastic the body panels are made of a tinted resin, allowing a shadowy view of the parts lurking underneath. A stylish aluminium frame is the main one of those mechanical features.
A honeycomb of strengthening ridges behind the panels adds rigidity and a further visual intrigue. The stiffeners are visible through the panels in certain lights, giving the illusion that they’re textured despite their smooth outer surfaces.
A smartphone doubles as the bike’s instruments and provides a navigation system. Most of the other technology is fairly conventional, with a normal single-cylinder engine. The continuously-variable transmission is part of the swingarm, as on most scooters. The brakes are slightly unusual with discs and calipers hidden behind circular covers that give a clean appearance to the wheels.
The leading link front suspension follows the cast-aluminium theme that’s set by the rest of the chassis, as does the polished headlight shroud and bracket. Meanwhile, the use of leather on the seat and grips is a typical concept bike touch.
There’s little chance of the 04GEN reaching production but it’s an indication that Yamaha has its eye on building a stylish, retro-influenced scooter. The transparent bodywork could also make an appearance on future production bikes as Yamaha has also featured see-through parts on other concepts including the production-bound MWT-9 leaning trike.
